After going 8-17 over their last 25 games, the Atlanta Braves lead the NL East by just three games over the hard-charging Miami Marlins and Philadelphia Phillies.
Accordingly, the Braves need some help at the trade deadline if they want to get back on track and remain atop the division, especially in the starting rotation.
While Tarik Skubal could be an option, a more realistic option is Sonny Gray.
According to Ken Rosenthal's report for The Athletic on Thursday (subscription required), Atlanta is one of several teams that have expressed interest in Gray.
What we’re hearing about the MLB trade market: Latest on Corey Seager, Sonny Gray and more. With @WillSammon, unlocked and free to read: https://t.co/LwVI9M19Lt
— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) July 9, 2026
The 36-year-old righty has been stellar for the Boston Red Sox this season, going 10-1 with a 2.61 ERA while leading the American League in winning percentage.
With the Red Sox six games below .500 and three games out of a playoff spot, they may look to sell at the trade deadline if they struggle over the next few weeks. If that happens, they'll likely try to move Gray, who's set to become a free agent this winter.
Gray has spent five seasons in the National League and would be a great fit for the Braves, assuming he waives his no-trade clause. However, Boston may hang on to the three-time All-Star if it continues its recent surge and stays in playoff contention.
It helps that Red Sox chief baseball officer Craig Breslow already has a relationship with Atlanta after trading Chris Sale for Vaughn Grissom in late 2023. Breslow's more experienced now, however, and would likely demand a larger haul this time around.